I don't know what to do...

My dad has terminal cancer and recently has taken a turn for the worst, he is constantly beign sick and cannot eat solid foods anymore. I feel that there may not be long left. 

Prior to his rapid deterioration, I had booked two holidays, which span over three weeks and I really don't know whether to go now or not. I have other people relying on me to go etc. But I want to spend as much time as possible with my dad. He says he wants me to go, but idk what to do. As well as this, I am going to university at the end of September, which will further reduce the time I can spend with him. 

I hate this wretched disease, why does it have to destroy so many lives!!! I am so angry, upset, frustrated all at the same time and I don't know if I will even be able to cope with university when the worst occurs. He is honestly the nicest man I ever will know, even this disease has not changed his lovely personality. I AM SO ANGRY. WHHY does this have to happen to the loveliest people, yet there are absolutely disgusting people who still get to roam this Earth. If family members weren't depending on me for strength, I wouldn't hesitate to terminate my stay on this planet.

 

EDIT: I don't know what I aim to achieve from posting this, I am just sat here crying (a regular occurence nowadays, and yes I'm male). Prior to this disgusting disease, I had not cried since for about a decade.

 

EDIT: OK, now I've pulled myself together and this thread is already embarrassing... but true.

Parents
  • Hi OC and welcome to the forum, though I'm really sorry it's your dad's illness that has brought you here.

    Don't feel embarrassed about your post, nor the fact that you cry regularly. It's a natural safety valve to let those pent up emotions out and they're better out than in! The forum offers a safe place for you let off steam too! 

    Your decision about going on holiday is a hard call for you, and ultimately, it's your decision about whether you go or not, but speaking as a parent (also with a terminal diagnosis) I am thrilled when I see my two children getting on with their lives and not  putting things on hold for me. I bet your dad is bursting with pride about your University plans! 

    Presumably your dad's medical team know that he's having eating difficulties? Have they helped with suggestions for shakes and soups etc to help him get the nutrition he needs? 

    Obviously, you've found this forum, but have you considered seeking other support to help you with the emotional aspects you're naturally experiencing? Your GP practice will have details of such agencies or contact Macmillan directly, they're there for families too.  All of us need a little extra help now and again. 

    If it helps, post on here as often as you need to. Take care of yourself - sending a massive hug, Jo x

     

  • Hi Jo, I am very sorry that you have been affected by this horrid disease. Not only that, but the fact that you are offering someone who is not even affected by this disease support is astounding, it makes me look weak in comparison.

    Yeah, the doctors are aware of his current condition and have prescribed all sorts of nutritional shakes/ soups etc. I really wish there was some way I could help him but unlike most of life's problems, which can be somehow resolved by human intervention, this is not one of them :(. I had been offered counselling services by Macmillan (I believe), but turned them down as I don't think I'd feel comfortable speaking face-to-face with someone about this, weird I know.

    I wish you the best with everything Jo, thanks for the reply.

Reply
  • Hi Jo, I am very sorry that you have been affected by this horrid disease. Not only that, but the fact that you are offering someone who is not even affected by this disease support is astounding, it makes me look weak in comparison.

    Yeah, the doctors are aware of his current condition and have prescribed all sorts of nutritional shakes/ soups etc. I really wish there was some way I could help him but unlike most of life's problems, which can be somehow resolved by human intervention, this is not one of them :(. I had been offered counselling services by Macmillan (I believe), but turned them down as I don't think I'd feel comfortable speaking face-to-face with someone about this, weird I know.

    I wish you the best with everything Jo, thanks for the reply.

Children
  • Hi again OC,

    So glad you've made the decision to go on your holidays - there will be much to talk about with your dad when you get back! 

    You are certainly not (in your words) weak in comparison to me. This awful disease affects all those close to the sufferer, not just the patient.

    It's reassuring to see you've been offered support even though you didn't take it up. My partner is similar in that he doesn't feel comfortable speaking to others about his feelings, so you're not on your own. But you know it's there if you need it in the future.

    And finally, a little phrase that comes to mind, 'By helping you, I'm helping me' ( I think this goes for a lot of us who contribute on the forum.) I only hope my ramblings do help in some small way! ;) 

    Take care, enjoy your holiday and good luck with your Uni course! Jo x